2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580 Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the check engine light issue in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580?

When faced with a check engine light in your 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system; this tool will help you retrieve specific error codes that pinpoint the underlying problem. Additionally, check the levels of crucial fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, as low levels can also cause the check engine light to activate. Don't overlook the condition of your battery, as a weak battery may lead to similar warnings. Finally, consulting the owner's manual can provide tailored insights and troubleshooting steps specific to your model. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580, it can be concerning for any driver. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensuring it is secure is a good first step. If the gas cap is not the culprit, consider the oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency and emissions control. A malfunction here can not only illuminate the check engine light but also affect your vehicle's performance. Another common issue is related to the catalytic converter; if it is failing or not functioning efficiently, it can lead to significant problems and should be addressed promptly. Additionally, the mass airflow sensor is vital for regulating the air-fuel mixture, and any malfunction can impact engine performance. Spark plugs and ignition coils are also critical components; if they are worn or faulty, they can cause engine misfires, which will trigger the check engine light. Lastly, an engine misfire can stem from various issues, including fuel delivery problems or ignition system failures. Addressing these common problems early on can help maintain your vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, making it essential for DIY enthusiasts to be aware of these potential triggers.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580, it is crucial to act swiftly. This warning signal can indicate a range of issues, from minor sensor malfunctions to serious engine problems that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring this light may lead to more significant damage, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with early intervention. Moreover, some issues may pose immediate safety risks, making it essential to diagnose and resolve them without delay. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's reliability but also enhance its longevity, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run. Therefore, if you see that light, don’t hesitate—take the necessary steps to investigate and resolve the underlying issue.

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2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE580 Check Engine Light Solutions